Freedom Tower

[Pyro]

I'm not sure if everyone already knows about this, but here is a link on the construction of Freedom Tower (http://www.renewnyc.com/plan_des_dev/wtc_site/new_design_plans/Freedom_Tower/freedom_tower_dec_19.asp). It's going to be built on top of Ground Zero. It's planned to be the tallest building in the world, using lots of new technology for safety. The top of the building is even reflective of the sky! I think it will be a good dedication to the events of 9/11 and will become a new national icon. What does everyone else think about this?

[Shnay]

I like the design, and I think it was one of the more tasteful monument plans. My main concern is what kind of safety measures they're going to impliment. Anything built on that spot is going to be a very tempting target for terrorist attacks, and if an attack were to succeed on this new building, it would be extremely devestating from a morale point of view.

Also, I'm not sure I like the name Freedom Tower. I understand that the preservation of freedom is what this tower will represent to many people, but that's not how I see it. I think it should be viewed in a more somber way, in the vain of the Pearl Harbor memorial. The PH memorial doesn't celebrate victory over the Japanese, it recognizes those who lost their lives. I think this tower should do the same. I know that isn't really uplifting to the national spirit, but I'm don't think that's what the intentions behind this tower should be.

[True Noir]

Oh! That looks great! I like the design a lot. Man, last year I went back to Ground Zero (born in NY) and it was so sad for me to see it. When I lived in Astoria, NY, I could look out my window and see the Twin Towers. I specifically remember looking at the towers. Well, anyway the Freedom Tower looks great. I would love to visit it when it's finished building.

Here's a little something to remember the towers. http://mindscraps.com/s/contrib/navigator/usa.gif

[PaQ]

The design looks interesting, I really don't recall seeing anything like it before.

I am glad to see things are progressing with this location and can't wait to see it constructed.

[purplehairedwonder]

Nice design. It looks very nice. Looks like it should be a tasteful memorial.

[Discloner]

Actually...If I'm reading correctly, the actual memorial is 'two giant footprints' of where the Towers once stood, titled 'Reflecting Absence'. (http://www.wtcsitememorial.org/)

Where as the building, is what they plan to rebuild for commercial use.

I can't seem to find a timeline of when they plan to have anything completed on the site, does anyone else know? I know they started construction on the site (although I'm not so sure they've started any physical construction yet) by placing the cornerstone down earlier this year.

As for the Freedom Building, I think it looks fantastic, and it'll look even nicer once it's physically completed and part of the cityscape. The skyline of New York will once again change, but I think it'll be a welcome one.

I do however have to wonder how many companies or people will wind up working in the building at first. I mean, I know I'd be slightly on edge about getting a new office there...although I'm glad to read that the building is being built with above code saftey standards.

[Squall]

I was one of those people who was in favor of replacing the former two 100-story buildings with four 50-story buildings... Building it tall again, and even taller than before, will just start the whole process of terrorists trying to knock it down all over again...

I know, if we built it like that the terrorists have won a victory, etc. I was just thinking engineering and logistics, that's all.

[PowerZord]

Nice tower, I hope history doesn't repeat itself once again.
so.. when will they start the construction?

[Shnay]

Actually...If I'm reading correctly, the actual memorial is 'two giant footprints' of where the Towers once stood, titled 'Reflecting Absence'. (http://www.wtcsitememorial.org/)

Where as the building, is what they plan to rebuild for commercial use.

I can't seem to find a timeline of when they plan to have anything completed on the site, does anyone else know?
I read some more on it, and you're right, the "Reflecting Absence" site is the memorial. It seems like a pretty fitting memorial, and I like the understatedness of it. So, I take back my earlier comments. It looks like this is all very well designed.

I also looked around for a timeline, and there isn't one to be found. I guess they don't want to put any "official" estimates on a project this large. It sounds like the constuction of it will really be something to watch, from an engineering or arcitectual standpoint.

I also read about the security measures they're implimenting, and it sounds like they're taking every precaution they can. Still, it's worrying to think about the possibilites of attack, but I suppose there's only so much you can do.